Ulcers are sores that form on the inner wall of the stomach or small intestine. The main symptom is stomach pain that occurs before or after eating. The causes are:
H. pylori bacteria: The most common cause of stomach ulcers is the bacterium Helicobacter pylori. This bacteria destroys the protective layer of the stomach and causes acid to directly cause wounds on the stomach wall.
Use of painkillers: Regularly taking painkillers from the NSAID (NSAIDs – for example, aspirin, ibuprofen) group without a doctor’s prescription increases the risk of ulcers. These interfere with the stomach’s acid defense.
Poor diet and timing: Eating excessively spicy, sour, and spicy foods can increase stomach acid production. Skipping meals and going empty stomachs for long periods of time can cause acid to damage the stomach lining.
Stress: Although not a direct cause, severe stress can make an existing ulcer worse. When you are stressed, your body produces more acid, which can increase the pain.
Smoking and alcohol: Smoking increases the risk of ulcers and slows the healing of ulcers. Alcohol irritates the mucus lining of the stomach and increases acid production.